Malikiah Marek Bennett

With heavy hearts yet an abundance of love, we announce the passing of our beloved Malikiah Marek Bennett, affectionately known as "Chips Ahoy", "Chocolate Chips", and "My Caramel Baby," who graced this world with his joyful spirit on August 2, 2024. Malikiah's journey, though brief, was filled with radiant smiles and boundless happiness. He touched the lives of all who knew him with those beautiful blue eyes and an infectious laugh that could brighten even the darkest days.

Malikiah was an exuberant soul who loved to playfight, bringing joy and laughter to his family. His light-hearted nature and cheerful demeanor endeared him to his loving parents, father Darrius Chaney and mother Selena Bennett, who will always carry his cherished memory in their hearts.

He is survived by his parents, Darrius Chaney and Selena Bennett; grandparents, Ashley Ingram, Justin Ingram, James Bennett, Elizabeth Johnson, and Clay Chaney; great grandparents, Anita Dillard, David Dunn, and Sylvia Newkirk; uncles, Rylen Adams, Cadyn Adams, Dakari Fulton, Cameron Chaney, Cailen Young, and William Authment; aunts, Madylin Prince, Evelyn Prince, Densia Fulton, TaKayla Henry, and Alecia Forrest, Brianna Prince, Justina Bode, Lexis Dillard, Elizabeth Thames, Kara Walters, and Hayley Smith; great uncles and aunts, Dale Smith, Rhonda Belsome, Phillip Smith, Gennifer Niemann, John Smith Jr., and Jessica Smith; cousins, Ariah Smith, Tristin Smith, Megan Smith, Lillie Prince, Kylelee Authement, Jessica Authment, Lillie James, Bradley Smith, and Liam Smith.

He is preceded by his great grandfather, John Smith Sr. and aunt, Brittany Dillard.

In celebration of Malikiah's short but impactful life, family and friends will gather for a heartfelt service, where we will share stories, laughter, and love in honor of our precious boy. The service will be held on Saturday February 22, 2025, at Picayune Funeral Home. Visitation for Family will be 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Family and others 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. With Service to begin at 1:00 p.m.


As we remember this beautiful spirit who has left us too soon, let us cherish the happiness he brought into our lives. Malikiah will continue to inspire us to find joy in every moment and to celebrate life in all its forms.

Rest in peace, dear Malikiah. Your laughter and smiles will resonate in our hearts forever.
Donations can be made directly to Picayune Funeral Home.